Phase I Archaeological Resources for the Proposed Barnesville Reservoir Rehabilitation, Lamar County, Georgia

This cultural resources survey identified 12 archaeological sites around the perimeter of the Barnesville Reservoir. This study was conducted prior to construction of the proposed replacement dam. The new dam will raise the pool level from 184.4 m (605 feet) to 189.4 m (621.5 feet) AMSL. In addition to the existing reservoir, approximately 74 ha (183 acres) will be inundated after the completion of this construction. The survey was conducted January 3-9, 1995, by Garrow & Associates, Inc. A combination pedestrian survey and subsurface testing program was conducted throughout this entire additional area. The literature search conducted prior to the fieldwork determined that substantial agricultural and timbering activities had occurred , in the area during the historic period. At least two mills located somewhere along Edie Creek that may or may not have been included within the boundary of the reservoir. Prior to this survey, only five archaeological sites have been recorded for all of Lamar County. The 12 sites identified during this survey more than triples the known archaeological site base for the county. The sites found during this survey are primarily upland prehistoric lithic scatters with retooling and resharpening debris. However, evidence of historic mill activity, domestic sites, timbering, and agriculture was also present. Unfortunately, these sites have been subjected to intensive destructive processes such that little to no depositional integrity remains in any of them. None of the sites can be recommended as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places because of their lack of intact archaeological deposits.